Organic Chemistry Hybridization

These flashcards encompass key concepts related to orbital hybridization in organic chemistry, including definitions and descriptions of hybridization types and bonding.

What is an orbital?

An orbital is a region of space where an electron is most likely found. It is not a path or orbit.

s orbitals

Spherical shape, no directionality, lower energy, one s orbital per energy level.

p orbitals

Dumbbell-shaped, directional (px, py, pz), higher energy than s, used to form π (pi) bonds.

What is hybridization?

Hybridization is the mixing of s and p orbitals to form new, equivalent orbitals that better explain observed molecular shapes.

sp hybridization

Occurs with 2 electron groups forming a linear shape (180°).

sp² hybridization

Occurs with 3 electron groups forming a trigonal planar shape (120°).

sp³ hybridization

Occurs with 4 electron groups forming a tetrahedral shape (109.5°).

Sigma bonds (σ)

Formed from hybrid orbitals through head-on overlap.

Pi bonds (π)

Formed from unhybridized p orbitals through side-by-side overlap.

Double bond composition

Consists of 1 σ bond and 1 π bond.

Triple bond composition

Consists of 1 σ bond and 2 π bonds.

Method for determining hybridization

Draw Lewis structure, pick an atom, count electron groups, match to sp/sp²/sp³.